Opinion: New expungement law gives many a fresh start

The new year is a time for reflections and fresh starts. This holiday season, we can celebrate landmark workforce legislation that becomes law on Dec. 27.

H.3209 expands the number of criminal offenses that are eligible for expungement, providing a fresh start for tens of thousands of South Carolinians who will have an enhanced opportunity to secure gainful employment.

This bill has been derided by some who view it as a “get out of jail free” card for past offenders, but nothing could be further from the truth. In reality, this bill allows those who have been convicted of non-violent offenses, including first-time drug-related and youthful offenses that occurred several years or even decades ago, to have those charges removed from their public records.

This bill also provides protections for employers against frivolous lawsuits and establishes an account in each Solicitor’s Office to collect private donations to help offset some of the costs of applying for an expungement.

Employment is the No. 1 factor in reducing recidivism. This new law removes a substantial barrier to employment for many who have re-entered our communities and are seeking positions that will help them take care of their families, achieve their career goals, and become productive, taxpaying citizens.

This bill would not have passed without strong leadership and tireless advocacy by community and political leaders from across South Carolina — too many to name. H.3209 is possible because of effective collaboration between the business, nonprofit, and civic communities. In the end, coalitions from throughout the state recognized the benefits of this bill and worked together for its passage with a strong majority of bipartisan support.

We must now focus on efforts to inform the public of this opportunity to promote awareness among those who would benefit from the new law. Updated expungement applications and instructions will be available on the solicitor’s website (www.greenvillecounty.org/solicitor/expungements) after Jan. 2. Businesses that would like to learn more about second chance hiring should contact the Greenville Chamber directly at www.greenvillechamber.org.

Donations to offset the costs of expungements can be made to the Solicitor’s Office. For the 13th Circuit (Greenville and Pickens counties), please make check payable to “Greenville County” and include a note or check memo that the check is for the Expungement Fund. Mail donations to: Office of 13th Circuit Solicitor, Attn: Marjorie Webb. 305 E North St., Suite 325, Greenville, SC 29601

Carlos Phillips is president/CEO of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce.